Intermediate in-game resource hybrid gaming system

ABSTRACT

An intermediate in-game resource hybrid gaming system is provided. In an entertainment game, utilization of an entertainment game element by a player may trigger a wager in accordance with a gambling proposition. Based on the outcome of the wager, the player may be awarded an intermediate in-game resource for use in the entertainment game. The intermediate in-game resource may be used by the player to acquire an entertainment game resource or element that may be used to enhance the player&#39;s play of the entertainment game.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The current application is a continuation of Patent Cooperation TreatyApplication No. PCT/US14/14112, filed Jan. 31, 2014 which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/759,296, filed Jan. 31,2013, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/790,155, filed Mar. 15,2013, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference asif set forth herewith.

FIELD

Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to gaming andmore specifically to systems and processes that provide a wageringhybrid game in conjunction with a non-wagering game.

BACKGROUND

The gaming machine manufacturing industry provides a variety of gamingmachines to enable wagering for interested parties whilst providing anentertainment experience. An exemplary gaming machine is a slot machine.As the demographic of eligible players has shifted with time to newergenerations who have grown accustomed to highly sophisticated graphicsand interactive video games, a need has arisen to increase theentertainment content present on a gaming machine to keep it relevant,at least to a growing portion of a casino's patronage. The subjectdesign is a form of gaming machine, designed for use in a physical orvirtual casino environment, which provides players an environment inwhich to play for cash, prizes and points, either against the casino orin head to head modes in a controlled and regulated manner while beingallowed to use their skills and adeptness at a particular type of game.An example of such a game would be a challenging word spelling game, oran interactive action game such as is found on video game consolespopular today, such as a PlayStation®, an Xbox®, a Wii® or a PC basedgame.

SUMMARY

Systems are provided for an intermediate in-game resource hybrid gamingsystem. In some embodiments, a network distributed intermediate in-gameresource hybrid gaming system, includes a real world server connected toa game world server, where the real world server is constructed toprovide a gambling proposition, where the gambling proposition isconfigured to provide a randomly generated payout for a wager of anamount of credits, receive from the game world server, gameplay gamblingevent occurrences, where the gambling event occurrences are based upon aplayer's skillful execution of an entertainment game that triggers thewager of the amount of credits of the gambling proposition andgeneration of the randomly generated payout for the gambling propositionfor the wager of the amount of credits, determine, an outcome of agambling event, and communicate, to the game world server, the outcomeof the gambling event.

In further embodiments, the system further includes a controllerconnected to the game world server by a network, where the controller isconstructed to execute the entertainment game providing the outcome uponthe player's skillful execution of the entertainment game, where theentertainment game includes a quanta selector user interface thatdisplays to a player a selection of a plurality of elements for theentertainment game, the quanta selector user interface allowing theplayer to select between the plurality of elements based on the outcomeof the gambling event, communicate, to the game world server, gameplaygambling event occurrences, where the gambling event occurrences arebased upon the player's skillful execution of the entertainment gamethat trigger the wager of the amount of credits of the gamblingproposition and generation of the randomly generated payout for thegambling proposition for the wager of the amount of credits, receive,from the game world server, the outcome of the gambling event, andreceive, from the game world server, an amount of quanta to allocate.

In some embodiments, the system further includes the game world serverconnecting the controller to the real world server by the network, wherethe game world server is constructed to manage the entertainment game,receive, from the controller, gameplay gambling event occurrences, wherethe gambling event occurrences are based upon the player's skillfulexecution of the entertainment game that trigger the wager of the amountof credits of the gambling proposition and generation of the randomlygenerated payout for the gambling proposition for the wager of theamount of credits, communicate, to the real world server, gameplaygambling event occurrences received from the controller to the realworld server, where the gambling event occurrences are based upon theplayer's skillful execution of the entertainment game that trigger thewager of the amount of credits of the gambling proposition andgeneration of the randomly generated payout for the gambling propositionfor the wager of the amount of credits, receive, from the real worldserver, the outcome of the gambling event, communicate, to thecontroller, the outcome of the gambling event, determine the amount ofquanta to award the player based on the outcome of the gambling eventand a quanta pay table distinct from a pay table utilized of thegambling proposition, where quanta is an intermediate in-game resourceused to provide the plurality of entertainment game in-game elements,and communicate, to the controller, the amount of quanta to allocate.

In numerous embodiments, the controller is further constructed todisplay a plurality of indicators of the plurality entertainment gamein-game elements, the plurality of indicators displayed to indicate anavailability of the plurality entertainment game in-game elements forselection on a basis of the amount of the quanta awarded to the player.

In some embodiments the controller is further constructed to gray-outthe plurality of indicators in inverse proportion to the amount ofquanta.

In still further embodiments, the game world server is furtherconstructed to allocate the quanta to enabled elements.

In some embodiments, the game world server is further constructed toconvert the quanta to actionable elements.

In several embodiments, the game world server is further constructed toissue quanta even when the outcome of the gambling event issues no realcredit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a conceptual diagram of components of an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a conceptual diagram of aspects of a Real WorldEngine (RWE) of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a conceptual diagram of aspects of a Real WorldEngine of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordancewith some other embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a signaling diagram of communications between a RealWorld Engine (RWE) and an external system to provide various functionsin accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a conceptual diagram of a process flow and signalingin a Real World Engine to provide various functions in accordance withembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a conceptual diagram of aspects of an EntertainmentSystem Engine in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a conceptual diagram of interactions between a userand an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance withembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a conceptual diagram of the interplay between aspectsof an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance with someembodiments of the invention using Real World Currency (RC).

FIG. 9 illustrates a conceptual diagram of illustrates the interplaybetween aspects of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game inaccordance with other embodiments of the invention using Virtual RealWorld Currency (VRC).

FIG. 10 illustrates a system diagram of an implementation of a networkbased intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates a system diagram of an implementation of an Internetbased intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a system diagram of an implementation of a cloudbased intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of components of a deviceimplementing an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a process flow diagram of a process of an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIGS. 15A to 15E illustrate user displays of an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram of a process of an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a process of an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 18A to 18H are illustrations of a user interface for anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning now to the drawings, systems and methods for providing anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) are illustrated. Inaccordance with embodiments of the invention, an entertainment game isprovided by an Entertainment System Engine (ESE) and a gambling game isprovided by a Real World Engine (RWE). A Game World Engine (GWE)monitors the game play of the entertainment game provided by the ESE anddetermines when a gambling event is to occur based on the game play ofthe entertainment game. The GWE then requests that the RWE resolve thegambling event in the gambling game by providing a gambling outcomeeither while game play in the entertainment game is continued or whileis paused to resolve the gambling event. The RWE resolves the gamblingevent including resolving any wagers on the outcome of the gamblingevent and provides the results to the GWE. The GWE then determines anyeffects the results of the outcome of the gambling event have on theentertainment game and updates the ESE accordingly to continue gameplay.

In many embodiments of intermediate in-game resource hybrid games (HyG),the consumption of an Enabling Element (EE), the occurrence of an ActionElement (AE), and/or some other player interaction with an entertainmentinitiates a gambling event in the gambling game.

The intermediate in-game resource hybrid game can provide one or moregambling games. In the gambling game(s), the outcomes of a gamblingevent and associated wagers are determined solely on the outcome of apseudo random or random number generator (P/RNG) based gaming module. Inaccordance with embodiments of the invention, the intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game offers an enriched gaming experience, based on gameplay of the fixed shooter game provided by an entertainment systemengine which through the game world engine (GWE) of the intermediatein-game resource hybrid game triggers real world gambling events in theone or more gambling games via the real world engine (RWE).

Intermediate in-Game Resource Hybrid Games

In accordance with many embodiments of the invention, an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game integrates high-levels of entertainmentcontent with a game of skill (entertainment game) and a gamblingexperience with a game of chance (gambling game). An intermediatein-game resource hybrid game provides for random outcomes independent ofplayer skill while providing that the user's gaming experience (asmeasured by obstacles/challenges encountered, time of play and otherfactors) is shaped by the player's skill. The outcome of a gamblingproposition that is determined by a pseudo random or random numbergenerator (P/RNG) or other such device that provides a random outcome inresponse to a request. In accordance with some embodiments, the wagergame may be initiated in response to a game object related playeraction. An intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance withan embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. Theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game 128 includes a Real WorldEngine (RWE) 102, a Game World Engine (GWE) 112, an Entertainment SystemEngine (ESE) 120, a gambling game user interface 122 and anentertainment game user interface 124. The entertainment game userinterface includes an intermediate in-game resource user interface asdescribed herein. In some embodiments, the user interfaces can be partof the same user interface. The RWE 102 is connected with the GWE 112and the gambling game user interface 122. The ESE 120 is connected withthe GWE 112 and the entertainment game user interface 124. The GWE 112is connected also with the entertainment game user interface 124.

In accordance with several embodiments, the RWE 102 is the operatingsystem for the gambling game of the intermediate in-game resource hybridgame 128 and controls and operates the gambling game. The operation of agambling game is enabled by Real World Currency (RC), such as money orother real world funds. A gambling game can increase or decrease anamount of RC based on random gambling outcomes, where the gamblingproposition of a gambling game is typically regulated by gaming controlbodies. In many embodiments, the RWE includes a Real World (RW)operating system (OS) 104, P/RNG 106, level n real-world credit paytables (Table Ln-RC) 108, RC meters 110 and other software constructsthat enable a game of chance to offer a fair and transparent gamblingproposition, and to contain the auditable systems and functions that canenable the game to obtain gaming regulatory body approval.

A pseudo random or random number generator (P/RNG) 106 includes softwareand/or hardware algorithms and/or processes, which are used to generaterandom outcomes. A level n real-world credit pay table (Table Ln-RC) 108is a table that can be used in conjunction with P/RNG 106 to dictate theRC earned as a function of sponsored gameplay and is analogous to thepay tables used in a conventional slot machine. Table Ln-RC payouts areindependent of player skill. There can be one table or multiple tablesincluded in Ln-RC pay tables 108 contained in a gambling game, theselection of which can be determined by factors including (but notlimited to) game progress that a player has earned, and/or bonus roundsfor which a player can be eligible. RCs are credits analogous to slotmachine game credits, which are entered into a gambling game by theuser, either in the form of money such as hard currency or electronicfunds. RCs can be decremented or augmented based on the outcome of apseudo random or random number generator according to the table Ln-RCreal world credits pay table 108, independent of player skill. Incertain embodiments, an amount of RC can be used as criteria in order toenter higher ESE game levels. RC can be carried forward to higher gamelevels or paid out if a cash out is opted for by a player. The amount ofRC used to enter a specific level of the game level n need not be thesame for each level.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the GWE 112manages the overall intermediate in-game resource hybrid game operation,with the RWE 102 and the ESE 120 effectively being support units to theGWE 112. In accordance with some of these embodiments, the GWE 112contains mechanical, electronic, and software systems for anentertainment game. The GWE 112 includes an Operating System (OS) 114that provides control of the entertainment game. The GWE additionallycontains a level n game world credit pay table (table Ln-GWC) 116 fromwhere to take input from this table to affect the play of theentertainment game. The GWE 112 can further couple to the RWE 102 todetermine the amount of RC available on the game and other metrics ofwagering on the gambling game (and potentially affect the amount of RCin play on the RWE). The GWE additionally contains various audit logsand activity meters (such as the GWC meter) 118. The GWE 112 can alsocouple to a centralized server for exchanging various data related tothe player and their activities on the game. The GWE 112 furthermorecouples to the ESE 120.

In accordance with some embodiments, the GWE includes an intermediatein-game resource module 119. The intermediate in-game resource moduleincludes the control logic for controlling the GWE's generation ofintermediate in-game resources as described herein.

In accordance with some embodiments, a level n game world credit paytable (Table Ln-GWC) 116 dictates the Game World Credit (GWC) earned asa function of player skill in the nth level of the game. The payoutsgoverned by this table are dependent upon player skill and sponsoredgameplay at large and can or cannot be coupled to a RNG. In accordancewith some embodiments, GWCs are player points earned or depleted as afunction of player skill, specifically as a function of playerperformance in the context of the game. GWC is analogous to the score ina typical video game. Each entertainment game has one or more scoringcriterion, embedded within the table Ln-GWC 116 that reflects playerperformance against the goal(s) of the game. GWCs can be carried forwardfrom one level of sponsored gameplay to another, and ultimately paid outin various manners such as directly in cash, or indirectly such as byearning entrance into a sweepstakes drawing, or earning participationin, or victory in, a tournament with prizes. GWCs can be stored on aplayer tracking card or in a network-based player tracking system, wherethe GWCs are attributed to a specific player.

In accordance with certain embodiments, the operation of the GWE doesnot affect the RWE's gambling operation except for player choiceparameters, including but not limited to, wager terms such as, but notlimited to, a wager amount, how fast the player wants to, and/oragreement to wager into a bonus round. In this sense, the RWE 102provides a fair and transparent, non-skill based gambling propositionco-processor to the GWE 112. In the illustrated embodiment, thecommunication link shown between the GWE 112 and the RWE 102 allows theGWE 112 to obtain information from the RWE 102 as to the amount of RCavailable in the gambling game. The communication link can also convey astatus operation of the RWE (such as on-line or tilt). The communicationlink can further communicate the various gambling control factors whichthe RWE 102 uses as input, such as the number of RC consumed per game orthe player's election to enter a jackpot round. In FIG. 1, the GWE 112is also shown as connecting to the player's user interface directly, asthis can be utilized to communicate certain entertainment game clubpoints, player status, control the selection of choices and messageswhich a player can find useful in order to adjust the entertainment gameexperience or understand their gambling status in the RWE 102.

In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, the ESE 120manages and controls the visual, audio, and player control for theentertainment game. In accordance with certain embodiments, the ESE 120accepts input from a player through a set of hand controls, and/or head,gesture, and/or eye tracking systems and outputs video, audio and/orother sensory output to a user interface. In accordance with manyembodiments, the ESE 120 can exchange data with and accept controlinformation from the GWE 112. In accordance with some of theseembodiments, an ESE 120 can be implemented using a Personal Computer(PC), a Sony PlayStation® (a video game console developed by SonyComputer Entertainment of Tokyo Japan), or Microsoft Xbox® (a video gameconsole developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash.) running aspecific entertainment game software program. In accordance with some ofthese embodiments, ESE 120 can be an electromechanical game system of anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game that is an electromechanicalhybrid game. An electromechanical hybrid game executes anelectromechanical game for player entertainment. The electromechanicalgame can be any game that utilizes both mechanical and electricalcomponents, where the game operates as a combination of mechanicalmotions performed by at least one player or the electromechanical gameitself. Various electromechanical hybrid games are discussed in PatentCooperation Treaty Application No. PCT/US12/58156, filed Sep. 29, 2012,the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

The ESE 120 operates mostly independently from the GWE 112, except thatvia the interface, the GWE 112 can send certain entertainment gamecontrol parameters and resources or elements to the ESE 120 to affectits play, such as (but not limited to) what level of character to beusing, changing the difficulty level of the game, changing the type ofgun or car in use, and/or requesting potions to become available or tobe found by the character. These game control parameters and elementscan be based on a gambling outcome of a gambling game that was triggeredby an element in the entertainment game being acted upon by the player.The ESE 120 can accept this input from the GWE 112, make adjustments,and continue entertainment game gameplay all the while runningseamlessly from the player's perspective. The ESE's operation is mostlyskill based, except for where the ESE's processes can injectcomplexities into the game by chance in its normal operation to createunpredictability in the entertainment game. Utilizing this interface,the ESE 120 can also communicate player choices made in the game to theGWE 112, such as but not limited to selection of a different gun, and/orthe player picking up a special potion in the GW environment. The GWE'sfunction in this architecture, being interfaced with the ESE 120, is toallow the transparent coupling of entertainment software to a fair andtransparent random chance gambling game, providing a seamlessperspective to the player that they are playing a typical popularentertainment game (which is skill based). In accordance with certainembodiments, the ESE 120 can be used to enable a wide range ofentertainment games including but not limited to popular titles fromarcade and home video games, such as but not limited to Gears of War (athird person shooter game developed by Epic Games of Cary, N.C.), TimeCrisis (a shooter arcade game developed by Namco Ltd of Tokyo, Japan),or Madden Football (an American football video game developed by EATiburon of Maitland, Fla.). Providers of such software can provide thepreviously described interface by which the GWE 120 can requestamendments to the operation of the ESE software in order to provideseamless and sensible operation as both a gambling game and anentertainment game.

In accordance with some embodiments, the RWE 102 can accept a trigger torun a gambling game in response to actions taken by the player in theentertainment game as conveyed by the ESE 120 to the GWE 112, or astriggered by the GWE 112 based on its algorithms, background to theoverall game from the player's perspective, but can provide informationto the GWE 112 to expose the player to certain aspects of the gamblinggame, such as (but not limited to) odds, amount of RC in play, andamount of RC available. The RWE 102 can accept modifications in theamount of RC wagered on each individual gambling try, or the number ofgambling games per minute the RWE 102 can execute, entrance into a bonusround, and other factors, all the while these factors can take adifferent form than that of a typical slot machine. An example of avarying wager amount that the player can choose can include, but is notlimited to, gameplay with a more powerful character, a more powerfulgun, or a better car. These choices can increase or decrease the amountwagered per individual gambling game, in the same manner that a standardslot machine player can decide to wager more or less credits for eachpull of the handle. In accordance with some of these embodiments, theRWE 102 can communicate a number of factors back and forth to the GWE112, via an interface, such increase/decrease in wager being a functionof the player's decision making as to their operational profile in theentertainment game (such as but not limited to the power of thecharacter, gun selection or car choice). In this manner, the player isalways in control of the per game wager amount, with the choice mappingto some parameter or component that is applicable to the entertainmentgame experience of the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game. Inaccordance with a particular embodiment, the RWE 102 operation can be agame of chance as a gambling game running every 10 seconds where theamount wagered is communicated from the GWE 112 as a function of choicesthe player makes in the operation profile in the entertainment game.

In accordance with many embodiments, an intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game integrates a video game style gambling machine, where thegambling game (including an RWE 102 and RC) is not player skill based,while at the same time allows players to use their skills to earn clubpoints which a casino operator can translate to rewards, tournamentopportunities and prizes for the players. The actual exchange ofmonetary funds earned or lost directly from gambling against a game ofchance in a gambling game, such as a slot machine, is preserved. At thesame time, a rich environment of rewards to stimulate gamers can beestablished with the entertainment game. In accordance with some ofthese embodiments, the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game canleverage very popular titles with gamers and provides a sea changeenvironment for casinos to attract players with games that are more akinto the type of entertainment that a younger generation desires. Inaccordance with various embodiments, players can use their skill towardsbuilding and banking Game World Credit (GWC) that in turn can be used towin tournaments and various prizes as a function of their gamer prowess.Numerous embodiments minimize the underlying changes needed to theaforementioned entertainment software for the intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game to operate within an entertainment game construct,thus making a plethora of complex game titles and environments, rapidand inexpensive to deploy in a gambling environment.

In accordance with some embodiments, the use of the RWE, GWE and ESEallows for the separation of control of an intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game between different devices. For example, the ESE may behosted by a device that is separate from any devices that host the RWEand/or GWE. Through separation of control of the functions of the ESE,RWE and GWE, the RWE may be isolated from the player's device, thuspreventing player interference with the RWE and the gambling game. Inaddition, as the ESE is responsible for providing the entertainmentgame, intermediate in-game resource hybrid games may provide for complexentertainment games for the player as the ESE need not include thetightly regulated components of the RWE, thus providing for more freedomin ESE design. Also, separation of control allows a GWE to providecomplex wager initiation rules that would not be possible if the eitherthe ESE or the RWE were to be in control of the wager initiation.

In accordance with various embodiments, an intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game allows for interleaving of continuous wagering within anentertainment game. For example, instead of wagering once, and thenplaying an entertainment game to completion, or playing an entertainmentgame to completion and then placing a wager, an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game allows a gaming system or device to be provided toa player where the gaming system or device provides a complex andinteresting entertainment game with wagering incorporated throughout theentertainment game.

In various embodiments, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid gameprovides for feedback into the entertainment game of additionalentertainment game resources that are made available in the ESE for theuse of the player as the result of wagering outcomes. The additionalentertainment game resources may enable portions of the entertainmentgame that were not available to the player without the resources.

In many embodiments, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid gameprovides the ability to use the intermediate in-game resource hybridgame in more than one jurisdiction, as the ESE is a component separatefrom the GWE and RWE. For example, the ESE may be operated as either apure entertainment game, or as a gambling game depending on the type cancharacteristics of the RWE that the ESE is coupled to.

In some embodiments, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid gameprovides for display of an entertainment game on a player's device thatthe player is using to interact with the entertainment game, as well asproviding a separate display of a state of a gambling game on a separategambling game display. The separate gambling game display may be on theplayer's device within the same physical display device, on a separatedevice having a separate physical screen, or on a separate physicaldisplay device on the player's device.

In many embodiments, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid gameprovides a quanta selector user interface that displays to a player aselection of in-game elements for an entertainment game. The quantaselector user interface allows a player to select between entertainmentgame in-game resources or elements rather than have these elementsarbitrarily provided to the player based on wagering outcomes.

In accordance with some embodiments, intermediate in-game resourcehybrid games also allow players to gain entry into subsequentcompetitions through the accumulation of Game World Credits (GWC) as afunction of the user's demonstrated skill at the game. Thesecompetitions can pit individual players or groups of players against oneanother and/or against the casino to win prizes based upon a combinationof chance and skill. These competitions can be either asynchronousevents, whereby players participate at a time and/or place of theirchoosing, or they can be synchronized events, whereby playersparticipate at a specific time and/or venue.

In accordance with some embodiments, one or more players engage inplaying an entertainment game, resident in the ESE, the outcomes ofwhich are dependent at least in part on skill. The intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game can include an entertainment game that includeshead to head play between a single player and the computer, between twoor more players against one another, or multiple players playing againstthe computer and/or each other, as well as the process by which playersbet on the outcome of the entertainment game. The entertainment game canalso be a game where the player is not playing against the computer orany other player, such as in games where the player is effectivelyplaying against himself or herself (such as but not limited to Solitaireand Babette).

The designs disclosed herein relate generally to an interactiveentertainment game where skill and chance may coalesce to provide a richarcade-style gaming experience, visually exciting and challenging, whereplayers may wager cash, credits prizes and points in order to win moreof the foregoing.

Many of the embodiments of the design provide an enticing method ofgaming to the players who expect a high level of entertainment contentin their gaming experience compared to the relatively simple gamemethods in use today.

The components provided by the RWE for an intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game in accordance with embodiments of the invention are shown inFIG. 2. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the RWEincludes an internal bus 225 that connects an operating system OS 221, apseudo random or random number generator (P/RNG) 220, one or more paytables (Table Ln-RC) 223 which would control the functions of the RWE, apseudo random or random number generator (P/RNG) 220 to produce randomnumbers, one or more pay tables (Table Ln-RC) 223, a wagering controlmodule 222, an authorization access module 224, and a RC credit meter226 that are included in the RWE 204. The RW OS 221 controls thefunctions of the RWE. The P/RNG 220 includes one or more RNGs that areused to produce random numbers for use in resolving gambling events andother process requiring a random number to determine an outcome. The oneor more pay tables (Table Ln-RC) 223 contain a plurality of factorsindexed by the random number to be multiplied with the RC wagered todetermine the payout on a successful wager. A wagering control module222 performs the processes to resolve a wager on a proposition of agambling event. The resolution process includes, but is not limited to,pulling random numbers, looking up factors in Pay Tables, multiplyingthe factors by the amount of RC wagered, and administering a RC creditmeter 226. A repository (a credit meter) 926 maintains a record of theamount of RC which player has deposited in the game and has beenaccumulated by the player.

An external connection allows the RWE 204 to interface to another systemor device, which is shown in FIG. 2 as the Internet 205 but may be anyother network and/or device. The authorization access module 224 of RWE204 is connected to the external connection and provides a method topermit access and command exchange between an external system and theRWE 904. The RWE 904 also contains storage for statuses, wagers, wageroutcomes, meters and other historical events in a storage device 116.

In some embodiments, the RWE communicates with external systems toprovide various functions of an intermediate in-game resource hybridgame in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The components ofan RWE that communicate with an external system to provide a componentof the RWE in accordance with embodiments of the invention are shown inFIG. 3. The RWE 204 shown in FIG. 3 is similar to the RWE shown in FIG.2. However, the P/RNG 220 which is an external system connected to theRWE 204 by the internet 905 in accordance with embodiments of theinvention. The P/RNG 220 could be a central deterministic system, suchas a regulated and controlled random numbered ball selection device, orsome other system which provides random or pseudo random numbers to oneor a plurality of connected RWEs 204. One skilled in the art willrecognize that only P/RNG 220 is an external system in the shownembodiments. However, any of the components could be external systemswithout departing from the invention and P/RNG 220 is shown as anexample only.

In FIGS. 2 and 3, the RWE 204 interfaces with other systems/devices orto an external P/RNG 220 using the Internet 205. However, one skilled inthe art will note that nothing would preclude using a differentinterface than the internet 205 in other embodiments of the invention.Other examples of interfaces include, but are not limited to, a LAN, aUSB interface, or some other method by which two electronic and softwareconstructs could communicate with each other.

The RWE and an external system typically communicate to provide theresolution of gambling events to resolve wagers on the events. Thesignals between the RWE and an external system to provide some processrelated to resolving gambling events in accordance with embodiments ofthe invention are shown in FIG. 4. In accordance with embodiments of theinvention, the primary function of the RWE 204 is to manage wageringevents and to provide random (or pseudo random) numbers from an RNG. Atthe top of the figure, a 6 component communication exchange grouped bythe “1” box is shown for a wager on a proposition in a gambling eventduring an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance withembodiments of the invention. An external system 450 that is requestingwagering support from the RWE 204 instructs the RWE 204 as to the paytable (Table Ln-RC) to use (410), followed by the amount of RC to wageron the proposition of the gambling event (412). Next, the externalsystem 450 signals the RWE to trigger a wager or perform the gamblingevent (414). The RWE 204 resolves the gambling event. The RWE 204 theninforms external system 450 as to the outcome of the wager (416), theamount of RC won (418), and the amount of RC in the player's account (inthe credit repository) (420).

A second communication exchange between the RWE 204 and an externalsystem 450 in accordance with embodiments of the invention that is shownin FIG. 4 is grouped by the “2” box in FIG. 4 and relates to theexternal system 450 needing a P/RNG result support from the RWE 204. Inthis exchange, the external system 450 requests a P/RNG result from theRWE 204 (430). The RWE 204 returns a P/RNG result to the external 450 inresponse to the request (432). The result may be generated as a functionof the internal P/RNG in the RWE 204, or from a P/RNG external to theRWE 204 to which the RWE 204 is connected.

A third communication exchange between the RWE 204 and the externalsystem 405 in accordance with embodiments of the invention that is shownin FIG. 4 is grouped by the “3” box in the figure and relates to theexternal system 450 wanting support on coupling a P/RNG result to aparticular Pay Table contained in the RWE 204. In this exchange, theexternal system 450 instructs the RWE as to the pay table (Table Ln-RC)to use 450. The external system then requests a result whereby the P/RNGresult is coupled to the requested Pay Table (442). The result isreturned to the external system 405 by RWE 204 (444). Such an aspect isdifferent from the first exchange shown by the box “1” sequence in thatno actual RC wager is conducted. However, such a process t might beuseful in coupling certain non-RC wagering entertainment game behaviorsand propositions to the same final resultant wagering return which isunderstood for the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game to conductwagering.

In regards to FIG. 4, one skilled in the art will note that the thrustof the FIG. 4 is to convey overall functional exchanges between an RWE204 and an external system 450. As such, various protocol layersnecessary for error free and secure communication, and other status,setup, and configuration commands which one might expect in any protocolbetween two connected systems have been omitted for clarity.Furthermore, some or all of the various commands and responsesillustrated could be combined into one or more communication packetswithout departing from the invention.

The process flow for functional communication exchanges, such ascommunication exchanges described above with reference to FIG. 4,between a RWE and an external system in accordance with embodiments ofthe invention are shown in FIG. 5. The process begins by a RWE 204receiving signals from an external system requesting a connection to RWE204. The Access Authorization Module determines that the external systemauthorized to connect to RWE 204 (504) and transmits an authorizationresponse to the external system. The external systems that providerequests a request for a gambling event is to be performed to RWE 294(506). The request may include an indication of a wager amount on aproposition in the gambling event, and a proper pay table to use toresolve the wager. The external system then sends a signal to triggerthe gambling event (508).

The OS 221 instructs the Wager Control Module 222 as to the RC wager andthe Pay Table to select as well as to resolve the wager execute (510).In response to the request to execute the gambling event, the wagercontrol module 222 requests a P/RNG result from the P/RNG 220 (512);retrieves a proper pay table or tables from the pay tables 223 (514),adjusts the RC of the player in the RC repository 926 as instructed(516; applies the P/RNG result to the particular pay table or tables(518); and multiplies the resultant factor from the Pay Table by theamount of RC to determine the result of the wager (518). Wager ControlModule 222 then adds the amount of RC won by the wager to the RCrepository 426 (520); and provides he outcome of the wager, and theamount of RC in the RWE and the RC won (522). One skilled in the artwill recognize that there may be many embodiments of an RWE 204 whichcould be possible, including forms where many modules and components ofthe RWE are located in various servers and locations, so the foregoingis not meant to be exhaustive or all inclusive, but rather provideinformation about an RWE 204 in accordance with some embodiments of theinvention.

A block diagram of components an ESE being provided by an ESE host foran intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance withembodiments of the invention are shown in FIG. 6. An ESE 610 may be partof the entertainment game itself, may be a software module that isexecuted by the entertainment game, or may provide an executionenvironment for the entertainment game for a particular host. The ESE610 and associated entertainment game are hosted by an ESE host 600. TheESE host 600 is a computing device that is capable of hosting the ESE610 and the entertainment game. Exemplary hosts include video gameconsoles, smart phones, personal computers, tablet computers, or thelike. The entertainment game includes a game engine 612 that generates aplayer interface 605 for interaction with by a player. The playerinterface includes a player presentation 635 that is presented to aplayer through the player interface. The player presentation 635 may beaudio, visual or tactile, or any combination of such. The playerinterface 635 further includes one or more Human Input Devices (HIDs)630 that the player uses to interact with the entertainment game.Various components or sub-engines of the game engine read data from agame state in order to implement the features of the game. Components ofthe game engine include a physics engine 640 used to simulate physicalinteractions between virtual objects in the game state, a rules engine645 for implementing the rules of the game, a P/RNG that may be used forinfluencing or determining certain variables and/or outcomes to providea randomizing influence on game play, a graphics engine 650 used togenerate a visual representation of the game state to the player, anaudio engine to generate audio outputs for the player interface, and anyother engine needed to provide the entertainment game. The game engine612 reads and writes game resources 615 stored on a data store of theESE host. The game resources 615 include game objects 655 havinggraphics and/or control logic used to implement game world objects ofthe game engine. The game resources 615 also include video files 675that are used to generate cut-scenes for the entertainment game. Thegame resources 615 may also include audio files 660 used to generatemusic, sound effects, etc. within the entertainment game. The gameresources 615 may also include configuration files 670 used to configurethe features of the entertainment game. The game resources 615 may alsoinclude scripts 665 or other types of control code used to implementvarious game play features of the entertainment game. The game resources615 may also include graphics resources 680 including, but not limitedto, textures, and objects that are used by the game engine to renderobjects displayed in the entertainment game.

In operation, components of the game engine 612 read portions of thegame state 625 and generate the player presentation for the player whichis presented to the player using the player interface 605. The playerperceives the presentation 635 and provides player inputs using the HIDs630. The corresponding player inputs are received as player actions orinputs by various components of the game engine 612. The game enginetranslates the player actions into interactions with the virtual objectsof the game world stored in the game state 625. Components of the gameengine 612 use the player interactions with the virtual objects of thegame and the game state 625 to update the game state 625 and update thepresentation 635 presented to the user. The process loops in a game loopcontinuously while the player plays the game.

In some embodiments, the ESE is a host running a browser thatcommunicates with a server serving documents in a markup language, suchas Hypertext Markup Language 5 (HTML 5) or the like, and the functionsof the game engine are performed by the browser on the basis of themarkup language found in the documents. In some embodiments, the ESE isa host hosting a specialized software platform, such as Adobe Flash orthe like, used to implement games or other types of multimediapresentations, and the functions of the game engine are performed by thespecialized platform.

The ESE 610 provides one or more interfaces between an entertainmentgame and other components 620 of an intermediate in-game resource hybridgame, such as a GWE. The ESE 610 and the other intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game component 620 communicate with each other using theinterfaces, such as by passing various types of data and sending andreceiving messages, status information, commands and the like. Examplesof communications include, but are not limited to, requesting by theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game component 620 that the ESE 610update the game state using information provided by the other component;requesting, by the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game component620, that the ESE 610 update one or more game resources usinginformation provided by the intermediate in-game resource hybrid gamecomponent 620; the ESE 610 providing all or a portion of the game state;the ESE 610 providing one or more of the game resources to theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game component 620; and the ESE 610communicating player actions to the other intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game component 620. The player actions may be low level playerinteractions with the player interface, such as manipulation of an HID,or may be high level interactions with objects as determined by theentertainment game. The player actions may also include resultantactions such as modifications to the game state or game resourcesresulting from the player's actions taken in the game. Other examples ofplayer actions include actions taken by entities, such as Non-PlayerCharacters (NPC) of the entertainment game, that act on behalf of, orunder the control of, the player.

Elements are a limited resource consumed within an entertainment game toadvance entertainment game gameplay. In playing the entertainment gameusing the elements, a player can (optionally) consume and accrue gameworld credits (GWC) within the entertainment game. These credits can bein the form of (but are not limited to) game world credits, experiencepoints, or points generally. Wagers can be made in the gambling game astriggered by the player's use of one or more elements of theentertainment game. The wagers are made using real world credits (RC).The real world credits can be credits in an actual currency, or can becredits in a virtual currency which may have a real world value.Gambling outcomes from the gambling game can cause consumption, loss oraccrual of RC. In addition, gambling outcomes in the gambling game caninfluence elements in the entertainment game such as (but not limitedto) by restoring a consumed element, causing the loss of an element,restoration or placement of a fixed element. In certain embodiments,gambling games can facilitate the wager of GWC for a randomly generatedpayout of GWC or a wager of elements for a randomly generated payout ofelements. In particular embodiments, an amount of GWC and/or elementsused as part of a wager can have a RC value if cashed out of a gameplaysession.

Example elements include enabling elements (EE) which are elements thatenable a player's play of the entertainment game and whose consumptionby the player while playing the entertainment game can trigger a wagerin a gambling game. Another non limiting example of an element is areserve enabling element (REE), which is an element that converts intoone or more enabling elements upon occurrence of a release event inskill wagering interleaved game gameplay. Other types of elementsinclude actionable elements (AE) which are elements that are acted uponto trigger a wager in the gambling game and may or may not be restorableduring normal play of the entertainment game. Another type of element isa common enabling element (CEE) which as an element that may be sharedby two or more players and the use of which by any of the players causesa wager to be triggered.

In progressing through entertainment game gameplay, elements can beutilized by a player during interactions with a controlled entity (CE)which is a character, entity, inanimate object, device or other objectunder control of a player.

Also, entertainment game gameplay progress and wager triggers can bedependent upon a game world variable such as, but not limited to: arequired game object (RGO) which is a specific game object in anentertainment game acted upon for an AE to be completed (such as but notlimited to a specific key needed to open a door); a requiredenvironmental condition (REC) which is a game state present within anentertainment game for an AE to be completed (such as but not limited todaylight whose presence enables a character to walk through woods); or acontrolled entity characteristic (CEC) which is a status of the CEwithin an entertainment game for an AE to be completed (such as but notlimited to a CE to have full health points before entering battle).Although various gameplay resources, such as but not limited to GWC, RCand elements as discussed above, any gameplay resource can be utilizedto advance gameplay as well as form the basis for a trigger of a wageras appropriate to the specification of a specific application inaccordance with various embodiments of the invention. Various hybridgames are discussed in PCT Application Nos. PCT/US11/26768, filed Mar.1, 2011, PCT/US11/63587, filed Dec. 6, 2011, and PCT/US12/50204 filedAug. 9, 2012, each disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

In accordance with some embodiments, a player can interact with anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game by using RC in interactionswith a gambling game along with GWC and elements in interactions with anentertainment game. The gambling game can be executed by a RWE while anentertainment game can be executed with an ESE and managed with a GWE. Aconceptual diagram that illustrates how resources such as GWC, RC andelements, such as but not limited to enabling elements (EE), areutilized in an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 7. Theconceptual diagram illustrates that RC 704, EE 708 and GWC 706 can beutilized by a player 702 in interactions with the RWE 710, GWE 712 andESE 714 of a based intermediate in-game resource hybrid game 716. Thecontribution of elements, such as EE 708, can be linked to a player'saccess to credits, such as RC 704 or GWC 706. Electronic receipt ofthese credits can come via a smart card, voucher or other portablemedia, or as received over a network from a server. In accordance withcertain embodiments, these credits can be drawn on demand from a playerprofile located in a database locally on an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game or in a remote server.

A conceptual diagram that illustrates the interplay between aspects ofan intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance with anembodiment of the invention using real world credit (RC) is illustratedin FIG. 8. Similar to FIG. 7, a player's actions and/or decisions canaffect functions 806 that consume and/or accumulate GWC 802 and/or EE804 in an entertainment game executed by an ESE 810. A GWE 812 canmonitor the activities taking place within an entertainment gameexecuted by an ESE 810 for gameplay gambling event occurrences. The GWE812 can also communicate the gameplay gambling event occurrences to anRWE 814 that triggers a wager of RC 816 in a gambling game executed bythe RWE 814.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the following mayoccur during use of the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game. Theuser enters an input that represents an action or decision (850). TheESE 810 signals the GWE 812 with the input decision or action (852). TheGWE 812 responds by signaling to ESE 810 with the amount of EE that isconsumed by the player action or decision (854). The signaling from theGWE 812 configures a function 806 to control the EE consumption, decay,and/or accumulation.

The ESE 810 then adjusts the EE 804 accordingly (856). The GWE 812signals the RWE 814 as to the profile of the wager propositionassociated with the action or decision and triggers the wager (858). TheRWE 814 consumes the appropriate amount of RC 816 and executes the wager(860). The RWE 814 then adjusts the RC 816 based upon the outcome of thewager (862) and informs the GWE 812 as to the outcome of the wager(864).

The GWE 812 signals the ESE 810 to adjust EE to one or more of the EEsof the ESE entertainment game (866). Function 806 of the ESE 810performs the adjustment of EE 804 (868). The ESE 810 signals the GWE 812as to the updated status (870). In response, the GWE 812 signals the ESE810 to update GWC of the entertainment game. The ESE updates (872) theGWC 802 using a function 806.

The following is an example of the above flow in a first person shootergame, such a Call of Duty®, using an intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game sequence in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

The process begins by a player selecting a machine gun to use in thegame and then fires a burst of bullets at an opponent (850). The ESE 810signals the GWE 812 of the player's choice of weapon, that a burst ofbullets was fired, and the outcome of the burst (852). GWE 812 processesthe information received and signals ESE 810 to consume 3 bullets (EE)with each pull of the trigger (854). The ESE 810 consumes 3 bullets forthe burst using function 806 (856).

The GWE 812 signals the RWE 814 that 3 credits (RC) are to be wagered tomatch the three bullets consumed. The RWE 814 then determines the resultof the wager and may determine the winnings from a pay table. On aparticular pay table (Table Ln-RC), a determination is made by RWE 814as to the amount of damage that the opponent has sustained. The RWE 814consumes 3 credits of RC 816 for the wager and executes the specifiedwager (860). The RWE 814 determines that the player hit a jackpot of 6credits and returns the 6 credits to the RC 816 (862) and signals theGWE 812 that 3 net credits were won by the player (864).

The GWE 812 signals ESE 810 to add 3 bullets to an ammunition clip(866). ESE 810 adds 3 bullets back to the ammo clip (EE 804) using afunction 806 (868). The ammunition may be added by directly adding theammunition to the clip or by allowing the user to find extra ammunitionduring game play. The GWE 812 logs the new player score (GWC 802) in thegame (as a function of the successful hit on the opponent) based on theESE 810 signaling, and the signals the ESE 810 to add 2 extra points tothe player score since a jackpot has been won (870). The ESE 810 thenadds 10 points to the player score (GWC 802) given the success of thehit which in this example is worth 8 points, plus the 2 extra pointsrequested by GWE 812 (872). Note that the foregoing example is onlyintended to provide an illustration of how credits flow in anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game, but is not intended to beexhaustive and only lists only one of numerous possibilities of how anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game may be configured to manageits fundamental credits.

A conceptual diagram that illustrates the interplay between aspects ofan intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance with anembodiment of the invention using virtual real world credit (VRC) isillustrated in FIG. 9. As seen in the FIG. 9, substituting VRC in placeof RC is effected without impact to the architecture or operation of theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game. The implementation of FIG. 9is not the only embodiment using virtual currency within an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game, but shows only one permutation of whichmany could exist.

Similar to FIG. 8, a player's actions and/or decisions can affectfunctions 906 that consume and/or accumulate GWC 902 and/or EE 904 in anentertainment game executed by an ESE 910 in the process shown in FIG.9. A GWE 912 can monitor the activities taking place within anentertainment game executed by an ESE 910 for gameplay gambling eventoccurrences. The GWE 912 can also communicate the gameplay gamblingevent occurrences to a RWE 914. Unlike the process shown in FIG. 8, RWE914 triggers a wager of virtual real world credit (VRC) 916 in agambling game executed by the RWE 914.

For purposes of this discussion, VRC can be thought of as a form ofalternate currency, which can be acquired, purchased or transferred, inunit or in bulk, by/to a player, but does not necessarily directlycorrelate to RC or real currency. As an example, there is a virtualcurrency called “Triax Jacks”, 1000 units of which are given to a playerby an operator of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game, withadditional blocks of 1000 units being available for purchase for $5 USDeach block. Triax Jacks could be redeemed for various prizes, or couldnever be redeemed but simply used and traded purely for entertainmentvalue by players. It would be completely consistent with thearchitecture of the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game that TriaxJacks would be wagered in place of RC, such that the intermediatein-game resource hybrid game could be played for free, or with playedwith operator sponsored Triax Jacks.

Returning to the process in FIG. 9, the following may occur during useof the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance withembodiments of the invention. The user enters an input that representsan action or decision (950). The ESE 910 signals the GWE 912 with theinput decision or action (952). The GWE 912 responds by signaling to ESE910 with the amount of EE that is consumed by the player action ordecision (954). The signaling from the GWE 912 configures a function 906to control the EE consumption, decay, and/or accumulation.

The ESE 910 then adjusts the EE 904 accordingly (956). The GWE 912signals the RWE 914 as to the profile of the wager propositionassociated with the action or decision and triggers the wager (958). TheRWE 914 consumes the appropriate amount of RC 916 and executes the wager(960). The RWE 914 then adjusts the RC 916 based upon the outcome of thewager (962) and informs the GWE 912 as to the outcome of the wager(964).

The GWE 912 signals the ESE 910 to adjust EE to one or more of the EEsof the ESE entertainment game (966). Function 906 of the ESE 910performs the adjustment of EE 904 (968). The ESE 910 signals the GWE 912as to the updated status (970). In response, the GWE 912 signals the ESE910 to update GWC 902 of the entertainment game. The ESE updates the GWC902 using a function 906 (972).

In accordance with many embodiments, gambling events may be repeatedlytriggered from the entertainment game via a GWE, thus providing anentertainment game having interleaved gambling events throughout theplayer's play of the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game.

Network Based Intermediate in-Game Resource Hybrid Game

A system diagram that illustrates an implementation of a networkdistributed intermediate in-game resource hybrid game with a GWE localserver in accordance with embodiments of the invention is illustrated inFIG. 10. In the figure, the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game1000 includes components, RWE 1002 embedded in a device used as the userinterface for player 1003. The device provides both a RWE/GWE userinterface 1005 and an ESE user interface 1007 for the player. The ESE isprovisioned by an ESE hosting server 1004 via ESE interface 1009, andthe GWE is provisioned by GWE server 1006 as indicated by the dashedline. Also pictured in the diagram are a number of other peripheralsystems, such as player management 1008, casino management 1010,regulatory 1012, hybrid game player account management 1014, andtaxation authority 1016 hosting servers that may be present in such animplementation. FIG. 10 also illustrates various other systems, whichmay reside outside the bounds of the casino and are connected to theframework via communications network, such as the Internet 1020,depicted by the connection lines past the casino firewall 1022. The enddevices utilized for user interfaces for an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game include, but are not limited to, casino electronicgame machines 1030 and wireless or portable devices, such as smart phone1032, personal digital assistants, tablet computers, video gamingconsoles or the like. These disparate devices are connected within andwithout the casino through the casino's information technology structureas illustrated by routers 1040 a, 1040 b and 1040 c. It should beunderstood that FIG. 10 does not attempt to illustrate all servers andsystems to which an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game 1000 mightbe inevitably be connected, and indeed one might expect there would beothers, but rather provides an example of a set of a sub-set of systemswhich would be present in an exemplary embodiment of an installation.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another implementation of an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.In the figure, the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game 1101includes components, RWE 1104 embedded in a device used as the userinterface for player 1103. The device provides both a RWE/GWE userinterface 1105 and an ESE user interface 1007 for the player. The ESE isprovisioned by an ESE hosting server 1104 via ESE interface 1109. Alsopictured in the diagram are a number of other peripheral systems, suchas player management 1108, casino management 1110, regulatory 1112,hybrid game player account management 1114, and taxation authority 1116hosting servers that may be present in such an implementation. In thefigure, note that the GWE is composed of two sub-components, a local GWEserver 1120, and a cloud server 1122 (components within the dash linearea 1124). In the figure, certain of the components are located withinthe bounds of the casino, namely the RWE, the ESE and a portion of theGWE, namely the local GWE server 1120. The Cloud Server GWE 1122 islocated in the cloud connected to the casino bounded intermediatein-game resource hybrid game components via communications network suchas the Internet 1130 through a firewall 1132. FIG. 11 also illustratesvarious other systems, which may reside outside the bounds of the casinoand are connected to the framework via communications network. The enddevices utilized for user interfaces for an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game include, but are not limited to, casino electronicgame machines, 1134 a and 1134 b, and wireless or portable devices, suchas smart phone 1136, personal digital assistants, tablet computers,video gaming consoles or the like. These disparate devices are connectedwithin and without the casino through the casino's informationtechnology structure as illustrated by routers 1140 a, 1140 b and 1140c. It should be understood that FIG. 11 does not attempt to illustrateall servers and systems to which an intermediate in-game resource hybridgame might be inevitably be connected, and indeed one might expect therewould be others, but rather provides an example of a set of a sub-set ofsystems which would be present in an exemplary embodiment of aninstallation.

A system diagram that illustrates an implementation of network a cloudbased intermediate in-game resource hybrid game over the Internet inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG.12. The system includes an ESE server 1202, GWE server 1204 and RWEserver 1206 that each connect to a user interface, 1210 a or 1210 b,(such as, but not limited to, a television screen, computer terminal,tablet, touchscreen or PDA) of intermediate in-game resource hybridgames over the Internet 1208. Each intermediate in-game resource hybridgame includes a local ESE 1212 a or 1212 b (such as, but not limited to,a video game console or a gaming computer system) that interfaces with aremote ESE server 1002. Processes performed by an ESE 1212 a servicescan be performed in multiple locations, such as, but not limited to,remotely on an ESE server 1202 and locally on a local ESE 1212 a. Inaddition, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game may include aPersonal Digital Assistant (PDA) 1214 or other type of mobile computingdevice game coupled to the ESE hosting server 1202, thus providing theopportunity for a player to play an intermediate in-game resource hybridgame on the PDA through a mobile phone or data network.

There are many possible permutations of how an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game could be constructed, with FIGS. 10, 11 and 12showing only three possible permutations and provided as examples, whichare not intended to suggest limitations to the forms of thearchitecture. Other embodiments include a version where the entireintermediate in-game resource hybrid game is in the cloud with only aclient running on player terminal within the bounds of the casino, or aversion where the RWE and GWE are casino bound and the ESE exists in thecloud, accessed by a client running on a terminal in the casino.

Any of a variety of processing apparatuses can host various componentsof an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game in accordance withembodiments of the invention. In accordance with embodiments of theinvention, these processing apparatuses can include, but are not limitedto, a server, a client, a mobile device such as a smartphone, a personaldigital assistant or the like, a wireless device such as a tabletcomputer or the like, an electronic gaming machine, a general purposecomputer, a gaming console, a computing device and/or a controller. Aprocessing apparatus that is constructed to implement an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game in accordance with embodiments of theinvention is illustrated in FIG. 13. In the processing apparatus 1300, aprocessor 1304 is coupled to memory 1306 by a bus 1328. The processor1304 is also coupled to non-transitory machine-readable storage media,such as a storage device 1308 that stores executable instructions 1312and data 1310 through the system bus 1328 to an I/O bus 1326 through astorage controller 1318. The processor 1304 is also coupled to one ormore interfaces that can be used to connect the processor to otherprocessing apparatuses as well as networks as described herein. Theprocessor 1304 is also coupled via the bus to user input devices 1314,such as tactile devices including, but not limited to, keyboards,keypads, foot pads, touch screens, and/or trackballs; as well asnon-contact devices such as audio input devices, motion sensors andmotion capture devices that the processing apparatus can use to receiveinputs from a user when the user interacts with the processingapparatus. The processor 1304 is connected to these user input devices1314 through the system bus 1328, to the I/O bus 1326 and through theinput controller 1320. The processor 1304 is also coupled via the bus touser output devices 1316 such as (but not limited to) visual outputdevices, audio output devices, and/or tactile output devices that theprocessing apparatus uses to generate outputs perceivable by the userwhen the user interacts with the processing apparatus. In accordancewith some embodiments, the processor is coupled to visual output devicessuch as (but not limited to) display screens, light panels, and/orlighted displays. In accordance with particular embodiments, theprocessor is coupled to audio output devices such as (but not limitedto) speakers, and/or sound amplifiers. In accordance with many of theseembodiments, the processor 1304 is coupled to tactile output deviceslike vibrators, and/or manipulators. The processor 1304 is connected tooutput devices from the system bus 1328 to the I/O bus 1326 and throughthe output controller 1322. The processor 1304 can also be connected toa communications interface 1302 from the system bus 1328 to the I/O bus1326 through a communications controller 1324.

In accordance with various embodiments, a processor 1304 can loadinstructions and data from the storage device into the memory 1306. Theprocessor 1304 can also execute instructions that operate on the data toimplement various aspects and features of the components of anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game. The processor 1304 canutilize various input and output devices in accordance with theinstructions and the data in order to create and operate user interfacesfor players or operators of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game(such as but not limited to a casino that hosts the intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game).

Although the processing apparatus 1300 is described herein as beingconstructed from a processor and instructions stored and executed byhardware components, the processing apparatus can be composed of onlyhardware components in accordance with other embodiments. In addition,although the storage device is described as being coupled to theprocessor through a bus, those skilled in the art of processingapparatuses will understand that the storage device can includeremovable media such as, but not limited to, a USB memory device, anoptical CD ROM, magnetic media such as tape and disks. Also, the storagedevice can be accessed by processor 1304 through one of the interfacesor over a network. Furthermore, any of the user input devices or useroutput devices can be coupled to the processor 1304 via one of theinterfaces or over a network. In addition, although a single processor1304 is described, those skilled in the art will understand that theprocessor 1304 can be a controller or other computing device or aseparate computer as well as be composed of multiple processors orcomputing devices including one or more processors.

Intermediate in-Game Resource Hybrid Games

An intermediate in-game resource, herein termed quanta, may be used topurchase or enable in-game resources, such as enabling elements (EE) oractionable elements (AE), which may change the state of the skill basedgame and/or offer the player benefits or advantages in the skill basedgame. Quanta is awarded to the player as a result of the outcome ofwagers made using the RWE. Typically a winning wager (W>0) may result inquanta being added, whereas a losing result (W<0) or push (W=0) may notresult in quanta being added. While this is a typical case, this may notbe the case in all instances. The rules for awarding quanta in game, mayvary from game to game and/or from operator to operator.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart for a process of providing a quanta selectoruser interface to a player, to display quanta available in anintermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) and provide a means forselecting in-game elements utilizing quanta in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. In some embodiments of an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game (HyG), as shown in FIG. 14, gambling istriggered as a result of utilization 1410 of an element in theentertainment game, such as an EE, AE or the like. In a first personshooter, EE may be represented by ammunition for a weapon. In acrossword puzzle game, EE may be represented by letter tiles of varyingvalue. In a driving game EE may be represented by fuel or nitrous. Invarious hybrid games the opportunity may exist for the player to winquanta as a result of a gambling win. The amount of quanta won may be afunction of the amount of RC wagered, the amount of RC won, or otherfactors.

In various embodiments, once a gambling game is triggered by utilizationof an element 1410, the gambling result is returned to the game worldengine (GWE) by the real world engine (RWE) 1415. The GWE determines howmuch quanta to allocate 1420, if any, based on the gambling resultreceived from the RWE 1415, and a quanta pay table 1425, resident in theGWE. As quanta may be carried over from turn to turn in theEntertainment System Engine (ESE) game, the quanta won is summed withexisting or carried over quanta 1430. In the case where no quanta iswon, the amount added to the existing quanta is zero. The quantaavailable is allocated to potential quanta enabled elements such as butnot limited to EE, represented as EE1, EE2, . . . , EEn 1435, where n isthe total number of quanta enabled EE in a specific game. The ESE maydisplay the total amount of quanta available, as well as theavailability of EE1, EE2, . . . , EEn, based upon the total amount ofquanta available 1r40.

In some embodiments, quanta may be converted in to something other thanelements. For example, quanta may be converted to things such as healthpoints for the players controlled entity (CE), an actionable element(AE) such as a chance to replay a turn to portion of the game, or theability to purchase special powers, special skills, spells, etc.

In some embodiments, a player may be able to convert quanta into itemsoutside of the game, such as merchandise, a free drink, a free meal,etc.

In various embodiments, if enough quanta is available to use one or moreof the quanta enabled elements, the ESE may receive a player choice1450, as to which, if any of the quanta enabled element the player wisesto use. If no quanta enabled element is selected, the game continues,until the next play of an element 1410, at which time the processdescribed repeats. In the case that a player chooses to use a quantaenabled element, the player makes a selection from the available quantaenabled element 1455, as displayed by the ESE. In some embodiments, theopportunity may exist for the player to select more than one quantaenabled element in a given turn. Once selected and played, the quantavalue of the selected element is deducted from the available quanta1460, and the balance is displayed to the player, as well as theavailability of EE1, EE2, . . . EEn, for future use 1465, via the ESE.Play resumes until the next gambling event is triggered by theutilization of an element 1410 in the skill based game.

In various embodiments, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game(HyG) with a quanta selector user interface may trigger gambling andsubsequently quanta allocation utilizing triggers other than EE, thismay include, but is not limited to AEs or time (real time or game time).

In various embodiments, the quanta selector user interface may allow theuser to use quanta to select and quanta enabled AE (QEAE), an example ofa (QEAE) would be to allow the player to take an extra turn, in a turnbased game.

FIGS. 15A to 15E illustrate a user display in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of a crossword puzzleintermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG), “War of Words,” aquanta selector user interface may be utilized. War of Words representsan intermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) implementation of aScrabble® type crossword puzzle game, which includes the use of quanta,and a quanta selector user interface 1500. In the game, players taketurns spelling words using letter tiles 1501 drawn from a pool ofletters. Each letter tile is assigned a point value. The words arespelled by placing the letter tiles onto a gridded board 1502. Playersscore points by summing up points assigned to the letter tiles that wereused to spell the word. If a player covers up a background tile having aspecial characteristic, such as background tile 1526, the playerreceives additional points for spelling the word, such as additionalpoints for the actual letter covering the background tile or additionalpoints for an entire word which happens to cover the background tile. Inmany embodiments, the summed up points for playing the words constitutethe GWC that the player earns for playing a letter tile. In manyembodiments, each placement of a letter tile is an instance ofutilization of an EE that triggers a wager in a gambling game of theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) as described herein.

In many embodiments, the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG)may offer quanta enabled elements for utilization in the entertainmentgame by the player, including but not limited to quanta enabled EE(QEEE), such as bonus background tiles indicated by indicators 1504,1506, 1508 and 1510. The QEEE can be placed on a game board 1502 by theplayer, at a location of the player's choice, to change the state of thegame and/or game board. The indicators are displayed to indicate anavailability of the quanta enabled elements for selection on a basis ofan amount of quanta awarded to the player. When played under a letter(or word), a bonus background may offer a letter or word multiplier,similar to those offered in fixed positions 1520, 1522, 1524 and 1526 onthe game board. As an example, as shown in FIG. 15A, the followingquanta enabled elements as QEEE are available; DL 1504 (double letter)for 200 quanta, DW 1506 (double Word) for 300 quanta, TL 1508 (tripleletter) for 600 quanta and TW 1510 (triple word) for 300 quanta. As FIG.15A shows, a the onset of play, zero (0) available quanta 1512 is shown,and the QEEE (namely DL, DW, TL and TW) are all shadowed in, showingthere is no quanta available to enable them.

Referring now to FIG. 15B, after a few turns of play, the player has 64available quanta 1512 b while this is not enough to utilize any of theQEEE 1504, 1506, 1508 and 1510 (minimum value is 200), the quantaselector user interface implemented in this game, shows the totalavailable quanta 210 (64) and a fuel gauge type display 1530 for each ofthe QEEE as shown by the removal of the grayed-out area on a QEEEindicator. As more quanta is won and available quanta 1512 b increases,each of the QEEE elements “fill up” further by removing proportionallymore of the grayed-out area. That is, an amount of the grayed-out areasof the indicators is indirectly proportional to the amount of quantaavailable to enable the QEEE. For example, if a quanta enabled elementrequires 100 quanta in order for the quanta enabled element to beenabled, and the player has 10 quanta, then 1/10^(th) of an area of anindicator associated with the quanta enabled element will be clearlyseen whereas 9/10^(th) of the indicator associated with the quantaenabled element will be grayed out. A simple function to determine theproportion of of area to gray out is then Maximum(0, 1−Qa/Qn) where Qais the amount of quanta available to enable the quanta enabled element,Qn is the amount of quanta needed to enable the quanta enabled element,and Maximum(N1,N2) returns the maximum value as between two values, N1and N2.

In various embodiments, each quanta enabled element will have arespective amount of quanta required to enable the quanta enabledelement. In such an embodiment, respective amounts of quanta required toenable each quanta enabled element may vary with the desirability of thequanta enabled element to the player. In some embodiments, therespective amounts of quanta required to enable each quanta enabledelement may vary with the usefulness of the quanta enabled element tothe player while playing the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game.

Referring now to FIG. 15C, play in the intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game has progressed, and more quanta, has been won, and added tothe available quanta 1512 c, which is now, 142 quanta. Additionally, theQEEE indicator fuel gauges now register the additional quantagraphically, such as 1532, by graying out less and less of the QEEEindicator.

Referring now to FIG. 15D, play has progressed further and availablequanta 1512 d is now 342, and as show graphically by the QEEE fuelgauges, DL 1504, DW 1506 and TW 1510 are now available to use by theplayer. As illustrated by 1534, the entire QEEE indicator is no longergrayed-out.

Referring now to FIG. 15E, the player has chosen to play and place thequanta enable TW background tile 1540. This tile has a value of 300quanta, which has been deducted from the available quanta 1512 e,additionally the QEEE indicators 1504, 1506, 1508 and 1510 have beenupdated to reflect the use of the quanta for the TW background tile1540, such as by graying-out almost all of the indicator as illustratedby 1536.

In an embodiment of a first person shooter intermediate in-game resourcehybrid game (HyG), with a quanta selector user interface, whereammunition is an EE, quanta may allow access to specialized ammunition.Specialized ammunition may include tracer ammunition, armor piercingammunition, incendiary ammunition or explosive ammunition. Thespecialized ammunition may have different values in terms of quanta,based upon their value to the player in certain scenarios and/or theirdestructive capability. By firing their weapon, and expending EE, theplayer triggers gambling propositions within the RWE, the results ofwhich can be converted by the GWE into quanta, which is available to theplayer. Once the player has earned enough quanta to enable one or moreof the QEEE, the ammunition will become available to select through aquanta selector user interface that is an ammunition selection userinterface. When a player selects the QEEE enabled ammunition using thequanta selector user interface, the value will be deducted from thetotal available quanta, which will be updated and displayed to the uservia the ESE.

In another embodiment, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game(HyG) enabled fantasy roll playing game with a quanta selector userinterface includes game time as an EE. For this type of game other EEmay include food or health. As time passes in the game world, wagers maybe triggered. The result of gambling outcomes may be fed back to theGWE, and result in the allocation of quanta to the player and displayedin the quanta selector user interface. The quanta may enable thepurchase of QEEE by the player's character or a controlled entity (CE).The total quanta is displayed to the player via the quanta selector userinterface of the ESE as described herein, the CE may have theopportunity to trade with or purchase items in the game world. In somecases may only be made available to the player or their CE, if purchasedusing quanta, these items may include but are not limited to, specialweapons, armor, potions or spells that may give the player or their CE adistinct benefit or advantage in the game world. Once a purchase iscompleted the purchase price will be deducted from the players availablequanta, and displayed to the user via a display of the quanta selectoruser interface of the ESE as described herein. In some embodiments,purchases may require a combination of in game resources (for examplegold and quanta).

In various embodiments, an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game(HyG) based upon a crossword puzzle word game similar to Scrabble™ mayinclude quanta enabled enabling elements as shown in FIG. 16. A player1600 may select a word to play, based on a number of letter tilesavailable. Furthermore, the player may have the opportunity to improvethe score of their word by playing available quanta enabled elements,such as but not limited to quanta enable enabling elements (QEEE) 1610.QEEE may include, but are not limited to, double letter (DL), tripleletter (TL), double word (DW) or triple word (TW) background tiles. Whenplayed, the background tile will act upon the letter or word played onthe tile. If a player 1600 has enough quanta available to enable one ormore of the QEEE, these will be shown as available QEEE, which theplayer 1600 may select from. The user interface is a function of theESE. Once a user has selected QEEE (if any) and the word they wish toplay, they submit their play to the GWE 1625, by invoking the playfunction 1630. The play function may be invoked by actuating a “Play” or“Submit” button, which is part of the user interface. Other actions maybe used to invoke the play function, for example, pulling a slot machinestyle lever on a casino style gaming device, or clicking on a button ona PC based game.

In several embodiments, by invoking the play function 1630, the player1600 commits to a gambling proposition, the parameters of which may be afunction of f1 1635 in the GWE 1625. Function f1 may include thefollowing processes:

-   -   Verify that the word played and tile position are valid, prior        to awarding GWC 1640 and triggering a wager in the RWE 1645.    -   Compute the points or GWC earned based on the points total of        the word(s) played, including background tiles, both standard        background tiles and QEEE background tiles, if used.    -   Generate GWC 1640, which would then be summed with the existing        GWC and updated in the master game state 1665.    -   Update the master game state 1665 in the GWE 1625, once the play        has been verified.    -   Determine the amount of real currency 1650 (RC) to be wagered        1655, based upon inputs which may include total points of word        played (this may or may not include multiplying background        tiles, either standard or QEEE type,) and wager denomination        1660 selected by the player 1600. For example a player opts to        gamble $0.02 per point, and the player plays a 12 point word,        with no multipliers, the amount of the wager would be $0.24,        based on the formula wager=denomination*points for word(s). This        formula is shown as an example, other formulae could be used,        depending on casino, regulatory or other input or requirements.    -   Trigger the pseudo random or random number generator 1670        (P/RNG)/gambling, in the RWE 1645.

In various embodiments, the RWE may contain a function f2 1675. f2 1675may take as inputs, the amount of RC bet, or the wager 1655, the resultof the P/RNG 1670, and a pay table 1680. Based on the P/RNG result andpay table look-up, and amount of RC 1650 wagered 1655, f2 1675 computesthe amount of RC 1685, if any, won by the player 1600. RC 1685 won isfed back to the master game state 1665 and displayed to the player 1600,via the ESE 1620 display interface 1615.

In many embodiments, function f3 1690, which resides in the GWE 1625,includes an algorithm to determine how much, if any quanta, is to beawarded based on the outcome of the gambling proposition. The output off2 1675, and by definition it's president inputs, including wager 1655,P/RNG 1670, and pay table 1680, may also serve as inputs to f3 1690. Thealgorithm to determine how much if any quanta is generated by f3 mayvery a significantly, based upon factors such as desired playerexperience, game personality desired, including how much influence theoutcome of the gambling game may have on the skill based game. In someembodiments the amount of quanta generated may be inversely proportionalto the gambling result, potentially allowing a player 1600 who is doingpoorly in the gambling game to gain advantage in the skill game. Thequanta generated by f3 1690, will be summed with existing quanta andstored with the master game state 1665, pending it's future use.

In many embodiments, the GWE 1625 will serve as the repository forunused (un-played) letter tiles, analogous to the draw pile of face downtiles unused tiles in a Scrabble® game. One aspect of the GWE 1625 is toreplace tiles played by the player with random tiles from the remainingunused tiles 1695 repository. This information is stored with the mastergame state 1665 in the GWE 1625.

In various embodiments the master game state 1665, will pass informationincluding, but not limited to, the state of the game board or field ofplay, current score (GWC 1640), opponents current score, quantaavailable, QEEE available, wager denomination, letters available toplay, and current RC balance, which may be displayed to the player 1600,via the display interface 1615.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart, for a process of a user interface, in acrossword puzzle game, which includes AE, EE, and QEEE.

In various embodiments, at the onset of play, a start screen 1700 may bepresented to the player, via the user interface, as illustrated in FIG.18A. The ESE may not proceed until it receives player confirmation 1710via player input. The ESE may then proceed to player login/sign-up 1720,as illustrated in FIG. 18B. If the player has an existing playeraccount, they may be able to login by entering a user name and passwordfor their account. If the player does not have an existing account, theywill be guided through a sign-up process, which will includeverifications, as dictated by the gaming authority, in which theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game will be operated. Once theplayer has successfully logged in or signed up, they may proceed toselect the bet denomination 1725 for the new game they are about toenter. An example of a betting denomination screen is shown is FIG. 18C.Once the bet denomination has been selected by the player 1725, theywill enter into head to head play, against another live player.

In various embodiments, the player's opponent may be selected by theplayer, by inviting a friend or someone known to the player to enterinto a game. In other embodiments, the opponent may be selected atrandom by the operator or casino, based on a pool of available playersthat wish to enter into a game against a random opponent. In yet anotherembodiment, as system may be in place to rank players by their level ofskill, and opponents may be assigned utilizing this skill ranking orbanding, in order to offer the player an opponent with a similar levelof skill to their own.

In various embodiments, once head to head play begins 1730, the playermay have the option to play first, or their opponent may have the optionto play first. Once it is the player's turn 1735, the player has theoption, to place letter tiles to form a word 1740, from their availableletter tiles 1745. An illustration of a play screen is shown in FIG.18D. In many embodiments, other options may be available, via a menu, asillustrated in FIG. 18H, these options may include but are not limitedto; settings, purchase, cash out, cancel, help, resign, and/or pass.When a player has played a word, a window or screen may appear, toconfirm the word the player wishes to play, along with the value of thewager associated with the word. If the player cancels the play, the playand the wager will not proceed to the GWE, and the state of theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game will be reset to the state,prior to the current play. If the word and wager are confirmed by theplayer 1747, the GWE updates the intermediate in-game resource hybridgame state and GWC, earned by the placement of the word, along with anybackground tile multipliers (standard or QEEE), and the GWE triggersgambling in the RWE, based on the wager sent from the ESE and GWE.

In various embodiments, if the result of RWE gambling does not return awin 1755, no RC is paid out, and no quanta is generated, or paid out,play passes to the player's opponent, and the player awaits their nextturn, 1735.

In various embodiments, if there is an RWE gambling win 1755, RC is paidout, and quanta may also be generated or paid out 1760. In the case of awin, where the RC won is equal to (push) or less than the RC wagered, RCis still returned to the player, and quanta may or may not be generated,depending upon the quanta pay table in use. Once RC and quanta have beenpaid out, play passes to the player's opponent, and the player awaitstheir next turn, 1735.

In some embodiments, quanta may be issued even when no RC is won, thisis a function of the quanta pay table in use by the operator or casino.

FIG. 18A is an illustration of a start screen in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the start screen 1800, thatmay be used in an embodiment of a game titled War of Words, which is aScrabble® type crossword puzzle game, implemented as an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game (HyG). As shown, the start screen, mayinclude the following elements, a play button 1802, to confirm theplayer wishes to play the intermediate in-game resource hybrid game(HyG), and information 1804, which may include, but is not limited to,age restrictions and information regarding the gambling jurisdiction theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game is being played in.

FIG. 18B is an illustration of a log in screen in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. A log in/sign up screen 1810, that may beused in an embodiment of a game titled War of Words, which is aScrabble® type crossword puzzle game, implemented as an intermediatein-game resource hybrid game (HyG). As shown, this screen allows aplayer with an existing account, to enter their username 1812, password1813, and log in 1814. In the case that the player does not have anexisting account, they may sign up 1816 for an account, via this screen1810. Other information 1818, including but not limited to,jurisdictional rules or regulations may also be displayed to the user onthis screen 1810.

FIG. 18C is an illustration of a denomination setting screen inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention. The denomination settingscreen 1820 may be used in an embodiment of a intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game (HyG) titled “War of Words,” which is a Scrabble®type crossword puzzle game. The screen 1820, may include a window 1822,which allows a user to choose the betting denomination for theintermediate in-game resource hybrid game they are about to enter. Thiswindow 1822 uses the examples of $0.05, $0.10, $0.25, or $1.00 perpoint, where points are the values in the corner of each letter tile.The denominations shown are for example only, the denominationsavailable may be set by the operator, casino, regulatory guidelines,etc. As shown in the example in FIG. 18C, if the player selects a basedenomination of $0.05, each point on a letter tile would have a wagervalue of $0.05. A table 1826, is displayed, which can show the RC valueof each letter tile, based on the denomination chosen. Once a player issatisfied with the denomination value they have chosen, they may lock-inthe denomination value by actuating the done button 1829.

FIG. 18D is an illustration of a game play screen in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

Screen 1830 may be used in an embodiment of an intermediate in-gameresource hybrid game (HyG) titled “War of Words,” which is a Scrabble®type crossword puzzle game. The screen 1830, represents a game screen atthe beginning of play. Elements of the game screen 1830, may include,but are not limited to the following:

-   -   A quanta and quanta selector user interface 1831.    -   An indicator showing the number of tiles available in the unused        tile pile 1832.    -   A display of the RC credit balance 1833.    -   A display of showing the player and competitor's username and        GWC score 1834.    -   An example of a game board 1835, including example locations of        background bonus tiles, such as DL, DW, TL, TW.    -   A menu button 1836. (FIG. 18H includes menu function details)    -   Available tiles 1837 for the player to place on the game board        and form words.    -   A recall button 1838, which when activated returns any tiles        placed by the player during this turn (prior to activating the        play button), returns the tiles to the available tiles 1837 area        at the bottom of the screen.    -   A play button 1839, which submits the player's word, for play        and wagering.

FIG. 18E is an illustration of another game play screen in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. Screen 1840 may be used in anembodiment of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) titled“War of Words,” which is a Scrabble® type crossword puzzle game. Thescreen 1840 is an example of a game that is in progress, the player'sopponent has played the word, “HEAD,” for a total of 9 points of GWC.The player has placed the letters T E and R, from their availableletters, to form the word, “TEAR.”

FIG. 18F is an illustration of another game play screen in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. Screen 1850 may be used in anembodiment of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) titled“War of Words,” which is a Scrabble® type crossword puzzle game. Thescreen 1850, features a pop-up window 1851, which verifies the word(TEAR) that the player has submitted, as well as the amount which willbe wagered, when this word is played. The player has the option toconfirm the play, by actuating the OK button 1852, or cancel the playand the wager, but actuating the cancel button 1853.

FIG. 18F is an illustration of another game play screen in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. Screen 1860 may be used in anembodiment of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) titled“War of Words,” which is a Scrabble® type crossword puzzle game. Thescreen 1860, is showing a win 1862, in which RC 1864 and quanta 1865 arepaid out. In the on-screen animation, the RC 1864 and quanta 1865winnings float up from the slot machine 1866 and are added to the totalRC 1868 and total quanta 1869 respectively. The result of the can beseen in FIG. 18H.

FIG. 18H is an illustration of another game play screen in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. Screen 1870 may be used in anembodiment of an intermediate in-game resource hybrid game (HyG) titled“War of Words,” which is a Scrabble® type crossword puzzle game. Thescreen 1870 shows the updated GWC score, to reflect the player's play ofthe word, “TEAR,” as well as the updated RC total 1872 and quanta total1873. On this screen 1870, the player has invoked the menu function,causing the menu window to appear at the left side of the screen. Themenu may offer the player functions that include, but are not limited tosettings, purchase, cash out, cancel, help, resign, and/or pass.

Although certain specific embodiments of a gaming system have beendescribed herein, many additional modifications and variations would beapparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the features of thevarious embodiments described herein may be implemented independently,cooperatively or alternatively without deviating from the spirit of thedisclosure. It is therefore to be understood that the gaming system maybe practiced otherwise than as specifically described. Thus, theforegoing description of the gaming system should be considered in allrespects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of any claims tobe determined as supported by this disclosure and the claims'equivalents, rather than the foregoing description.

What is claimed is:
 1. A network distributed intermediate in-gameresource hybrid gaming system, comprising: a real world server connectedto a game world server, wherein the real world server is constructed to:provide a gambling proposition, whereof the gambling proposition isconfigured to provide a randomly generated payout for a wager of anamount of credits; receive from the game world server, gameplay gamblingevent occurrences, wherein the gambling event occurrences are based upona player's skillful execution of an entertainment game that triggers thewager of the amount of credits of the gambling proposition andgeneration of the randomly generated payout for the gambling propositionfor the wager of the amount of credits; determine, an outcome of agambling event using a random number generator; communicate, to the gameworld server, the outcome of the gambling event; a controller connectedto the game world server by a network, wherein the controller isconstructed to: execute the entertainment game providing the outcomeupon the player's skillful execution of the entertainment game, whereinthe entertainment game includes a quanta selector user interface thatdisplays on a user output device a selection of a plurality of elementsfor the entertainment game, the quanta selector user interface allowingthe player to select between the plurality of elements based on theoutcome of the gambling event; communicate, to the game world server,gameplay gambling event occurrences, wherein the gambling eventoccurrences are based upon the player's skillful execution of theentertainment game that trigger the wager of the amount of credits ofthe gambling proposition and generation of the randomly generated payoutfor the gambling proposition for the wager of the amount of credits;receive, from the game world server, the outcome of the gambling event;receive, from the game world server, an amount of quanta to allocate;and the game world server connecting the controller to the real worldserver by the network, wherein the game world server is constructed to:manage the entertainment game; receive, from the controller, gameplaygambling event occurrences, wherein the gambling event occurrences arebased upon the player's skillful execution of the entertainment gamethat trigger the wager of the amount of credits of the gamblingproposition and generation of the randomly generated payout for thegambling proposition for the wager of the amount of credits communicate,to the real world server, gameplay gambling event occurrences receivedfrom the controller to the real world server, wherein the gambling eventoccurrences are based upon the player's skillful execution of theentertainment game that trigger the wager of the amount of credits ofthe gambling proposition and generation of the randomly generated payoutfor the gambling proposition for the wager of the amount of credits;receive, from the real world server, the outcome of the gambling event;communicate, to the controller, the outcome of the gambling event;determine the amount of quanta to award the player based on the outcomeof the gambling event and a quanta pay table distinct from a pay tableutilized of the gambling proposition, wherein quanta is an intermediatein-game resource used to provide the plurality of entertainment gamein-game elements; and communicate, to the controller, the amount ofquanta to allocate.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller isfurther constructed to display a plurality of indicators of theplurality entertainment game in-game elements, the plurality ofindicators displayed to indicate an availability of the pluralityentertainment game in-game elements for selection on a basis of theamount of the quanta awarded to the player.
 3. The system of claim 2,wherein the controller is further constructed to gray-out the pluralityof indicators in inverse proportion to the amount of quanta.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the game world server is further constructedto allocate the quanta to enabled elements.
 5. The system of claim 1,wherein the game world server is further constructed to convert thequanta to actionable elements.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein thegame world server is further constructed to issue quanta even when theoutcome of the gambling event issues no real credit.
 7. A networkdistributed intermediate in-game resource hybrid gaming system,comprising: a controller connected to a game world server by a network,wherein the controller is constructed to: execute an entertainment gameproviding an outcome upon a player's skillful execution of theentertainment game, wherein the entertainment game includes a quantaselector user interface that displays on a user output device aselection of a plurality of elements for the entertainment game, thequanta selector user interface allowing the player to select between theplurality of elements based on the outcome of a gambling event;communicate, to the game world server, gameplay gambling eventoccurrences, wherein the gambling event occurrences are based upon theplayer's skillful execution of the entertainment game that trigger awager of an amount of credits in a gambling proposition and generationof a randomly generated payout for the gambling proposition for thewager of the amount of credits; receive, from the game world server, theoutcome of the gambling event; receive, from the game world server, anamount of quanta to allocate; and the game world server connecting thecontroller to a real world server by the network, wherein the game worldserver is constructed to: manage the entertainment game; receive, fromthe controller, gameplay gambling event occurrences, wherein thegambling event occurrences are based upon the player's skillfulexecution of the entertainment game that trigger the wager of the amountof credits of the gambling proposition and generation of the randomlygenerated payout for the gambling proposition for the wager of theamount of credits communicate, to the real world server, gameplaygambling event occurrences received from the controller to the realworld server, wherein the gambling event occurrences are based upon theplayer's skillful execution of the entertainment game that trigger thewager of the amount of credits of the gambling proposition andgeneration of the randomly generated payout for the gambling propositionfor the wager of the amount of credits; receive, from the real worldserver, the outcome of the gambling event based on the output of arandom number generator; communicate, to the controller, the outcome ofthe gambling event; determine the amount of quanta to award the playerbased on the outcome of the gambling event and a quanta pay tabledistinct from a pay table utilized of the gambling proposition, whereinquanta is an intermediate in-game resource used to provide the pluralityof entertainment game in-game elements; and communicate, to thecontroller, the amount of quanta to allocate.
 8. The system of claim 7,wherein the controller is further constructed to display a plurality ofindicators of the plurality entertainment game in-game elements, theplurality of indicators displayed to indicate an availability of theplurality entertainment game in-game elements for selection on a basisof the amount of the quanta awarded to the player.
 9. The system ofclaim 8, wherein the controller is further constructed to gray-out theplurality of indicators in inverse proportion to the amount of quanta.10. The system of claim 7, wherein game world server is furtherconstructed to allocate the quanta to enabled elements.
 11. The systemof claim 7, wherein the game world server is further constructed toconvert the quanta to actionable elements.
 12. The system of claim 7,wherein the game world server is further constructed to issue quantaeven when the outcome of the gambling event issues no real credit.
 13. Anetwork distributed intermediate in-game resource hybrid gaming system,comprising: a real world server connected to a game world server,wherein the real world server is constructed to: provide a gamblingproposition, whereof the gambling proposition is configured to provide arandomly generated payout for a wager of an amount of credits; receivefrom the game world server, gameplay gambling event occurrences, whereinthe gambling event occurrences are based upon a player's skillfulexecution of an entertainment game that triggers the wager of the amountof credits of the gambling proposition and generation of the randomlygenerated payout for the gambling proposition for the wager of theamount of credits; determine an outcome of a gambling event using arandom number generator; communicate, to the game world server, theoutcome of the gambling event; and the game world server connecting acontroller to the real world server by a network, wherein the game worldserver is constructed to: manage the entertainment game; receive, fromthe controller, gameplay gambling event occurrences, wherein thegambling event occurrences are based upon the player's skillfulexecution of the entertainment game using a user input device thattriggers the wager of the amount of credits of the gambling propositionand generation of the randomly generated payout for the gamblingproposition for the wager of the amount of credits; communicate, to thereal world server, gameplay gambling event occurrences received from thecontroller to the real world server, wherein the gambling eventoccurrences are based upon the player's skillful execution of theentertainment game that trigger the wager of the amount of credits ofthe gambling proposition and generation of the randomly generated payoutfor the gambling proposition for the wager of the amount of credits;receive, from the real world server, the outcome of the gambling event;communicate, to the controller, the outcome of the gambling event;determine the amount of quanta to award the player based on the outcomeof the gambling event and a quanta pay table distinct from a pay tableutilized of the gambling proposition, wherein quanta is an intermediatein-game resource used to provide the plurality of entertainment gamein-game elements; and communicate, to the controller, the amount ofquanta to allocate.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the controlleris further constructed to display a plurality of indicators of theplurality entertainment game in-game elements, the plurality ofindicators displayed to indicate an availability of the pluralityentertainment game in-game elements for selection on a basis of theamount of the quanta awarded to the player.
 15. The system of claim 14,wherein the controller is further constructed to gray-out the pluralityof indicators in inverse proportion to the amount of quanta.
 16. Thesystem of claim 13, wherein the game world server is further constructedto allocate the quanta to enabled elements.
 17. The system of claim 13,wherein the game world server is further constructed to convert thequanta to actionable elements.
 18. The system of claim 13, wherein thegame world server is further constructed to issue quanta even when theoutcome of the gambling event issues no real credit.